NYCFC had the better of the run of play in the first half but conceded in the first 30 minutes of a match for the ninth time when Bruin first-timed David Horst’s headed pass off a corner kick past NYCFC goalkeeper Josh Saunders.

The hosts continued to control possession but struggled to create chances.

Their best look at a goal in early action came just two minutes into the match when Sebastian Velasquez laid off for Villa, who struck a right-footed curler that sizzled just outside the far post.

NYCFC would catch a break on the stroke of halftime when Houston defender Raúl Rodríguez handled inside the box. Villa drove his spot kick past Houston goalkeeper Tyler Deric, who guessed right but was unable to reach the drive.

NYCFC gained footing as the game went along, and had a number of looks at a potential game winner with Mix Diskerud and second-half substitute Kwadwo Poku becoming more active in the attack.

In the 89th minute, Poku created his team’s best chance with bullish run to the left corner for a cross back to Jeb Brovsky for a diving header that Deric turned away with a fine diving save. Brovsky had another strong opportunity minutes later on the far post but side-footed his effort wide and the game ended in a share of points.

Houston nearly found a game winner of their own in the 83rd minute, when Giles Barnes got free in the box for a one-on-one with Saunders, who was able to turn away the close-range attempt.

The Dynamo return to action when they play host to the New York Red Bulls on June 5, while NYCFC will travel to Philadelphia to take on the Union on June 6.

Houston Dynamo (4-5-5, 17 points) at New York City FC (1-7-5, 8 points)
MLS regular season
May 30, 2015 — Yankee Stadium, New York City, New York
Attendance: 26,211